Jewel Defends Performance at Trump-Inauguration Event Amid Backlash

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Singer-songwriter Jewel has publicly addressed the backlash over her decision to perform at Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” ball, an event celebrating Donald Trump‘s inauguration. The 50-year-old artist, known for hits like “You Were Meant for Me,” defended her choice in a heartfelt Instagram video on Friday, emphasizing her commitment to mental health advocacy over political divides.

In the video, Jewel apologized to fans who felt hurt by her appearance at the event, particularly members of the LGBTQIA+ community. “I am so sorry that I caused pain, especially in my LGBTQIA+ community, because you guys are treasures,” she said. “You make the world a better place. You’ve made my life a better place. And I will not stop fighting.”

Jewel explained that her decision to perform was driven by her desire to address the nation’s mental health crisis, which she described as “bleak.” She cited alarming statistics, including that one in four children have considered suicide. “If I wait to try until I agree 100% with the people that might be willing to help me, I’d never get off the bench,” she said. “I don’t think that’s how activism works — waiting until everything’s perfect enough to participate.”

The Grammy-winning artist acknowledged that while she doesn’t align with all of the current administration’s policies, she believes there are individuals within it who are willing to collaborate on mental health initiatives. “If I can help shape policy, make sure mental health is in the conversation when it comes to American health, if I can help put resources or mental health tools into the hands of the most vulnerable who need it, I’m going to try, and I’m going to fight,” she said.

Jewel also expressed empathy for the divided state of the country. “Half of our country feels hope right now, and I honor that,” she said. “And half of our country feels disenfranchised and scared and vulnerable, and that is unacceptable.”

The singer concluded her message with a call for unity and understanding. “I want to be a ray of light in this world. I try hard to be a ray of light in your lives,” she said. “And I know that in times of darkness, we must grow light, and so I will wake up again tomorrow and try again. And I will count on each of you to do the same.”

Jewel’s appearance at the MAHA ball was not widely publicized, and she did not share footage of her performance on social media. However, her association with RFK Jr. is not new. Earlier this month, she posted a photo with him and his children at an event supporting Inspiring Children, a nonprofit organization.

As a longtime mental health advocate, Jewel co-founded the Inspiring Children Foundation, which focuses on helping at-risk youth in Las Vegas. She also launched Innerworld, a virtual reality platform offering free mental health resources. Despite the controversy, Jewel remains steadfast in her mission to address mental health issues across political and social divides.